A youthful Super Eagles side showed resilience to draw 3-3 with Russia in an international friendly at the Nizhny Novgorod Stadium on Tuesday, October 6, 2026. Nigeria twice came from behind, with the final equaliser arriving deep into stoppage time.
Kelechi Iheanacho opened the scoring for Nigeria in the 10th minute. Russia responded through Sadulaev, Kislyak and Miranchuk, but the visitors refused to fold. Peter Edokpolor pulled Nigeria level in the 78th minute and Akor Adams struck in the 94th minute to complete the comeback.
A depleted squad
Head coach Eric Chelle travelled without several regulars, including striker Victor Osimhen, who was left out as he continued his recovery from injury. The squad mixed experienced figures such as Wilfred Ndidi, Moses Simon and Bright Osayi-Samuel with home-based and fringe players hoping to impress. The match gave Chelle a chance to look at alternatives in defence and midfield after the September AFCON qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.
Key points
- Result: Russia 3-3 Nigeria, October 6, Nizhny Novgorod.
- Nigeria’s scorers: Iheanacho (10′), Edokpolor (78′), Adams (90+4′).
- Russia’s scorers: Sadulaev, Kislyak and Miranchuk.
- History: the second senior meeting between the teams, after a 1-1 draw in Moscow in June 2025.
Looking ahead
Background
Russia’s national team has been barred from FIFA and UEFA competitions since 2022 and has filled international windows with friendly matches, which is how the fixture came about. For Nigeria, matches against European opposition are seen as valuable tests of tactical discipline and fitness.
The Super Eagles missed out on the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and the focus now is on qualifying for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. The spirit shown in Russia will encourage supporters, although defensive lapses that allowed three goals will need attention before the next qualifiers. Several younger players, notably the goalscorers Edokpolor and Adams, will hope the performance earns them more minutes in competitive matches.
Photo: Unsplash (illustrative).
The young boys showed heart. Defence still needs work before the next qualifiers though.
Akor Adams in the 94th minute! What a finish.